article in The Western Mail – October 6, 2003
Pupils and teachers who started a multicultural peace movement have been praised twice in one week.
A number of religious intolerances after September 11 was the inspiration for the Peace Mala bracelets, worn to demonstrate tolerance.
Councillors and ChildLine Cymru praised the scheme which now attracts 60,000 website hits a month. The scheme has been given extra cash to run its website and has been noted for its help in battling bullying.
The Peace Mala was started at a Llanelli school to break down racial, religious and cultural barriers between people and countries.
Religious education teacher Pam Evans came up with the idea, incorporating a variety of religious philosophies.
“There has recently been a lot of mistrust of other people’s religions and cultures – something we need to reverse,” she said.
People wear a multi-coloured bracelet to show they are open-minded about world cultures. It has been recognised by religious leaders including the Archbishop of Canterbury and the Dalai Lama.
Over the weekend it won a national anti-bullying award from ChildLine Cymru.
ChildLine director Julie Crossan said, “We applaud the great work now being done to confront bullying in schools and youth groups throughout Wales.”
The movement was given £1,000 by the Co-op to help the website, which is at www.peacemala.org.uk
Carmarthenshire County Council chairman Dilwyn Williams said, “These young people are responsible for a fantastic project.”